Roku and YouTube TV Join Forces for an Enhanced Sports Experience.

Roku is enhancing the sports-watching experience for its users by officially integrating YouTube TV content, including NFL games and NFL Sunday Ticket, directly into its Roku Sports app. This new integration, which began rolling out to all Roku devices in the U.S. on September 5, 2025, marks a major step in making it easier for sports fans to find and stream live games.

How the Integration Works.

The Roku Sports app, a centralized hub for discovering sports content, previously highlighted content from services like Fox One, DAZN Live Sports, and Xfinity Stream. Now, it will also surface live sports games from YouTube TV. This means that if you are a YouTube TV subscriber, you can use the Roku Sports app as a starting point to quickly find and launch the games you want to watch without having to manually open the YouTube TV app.

This partnership is part of a broader strategy by Roku to tailor its operating system to better surface content from various third-party services. Joe Franzetta, Roku's Head of Sports Media, stated in a press release that the move is a "major step in delivering a comprehensive fan-centered experience that simplifies sports discovery."

More than Just Football.

While the integration is timely for the start of the NFL season and prominently features NFL Sunday Ticket, the partnership will also extend to other live sports and programming. Roku has indicated that in the future, YouTube TV will be accessible in other content discovery destinations across the Roku platform, giving viewers broader access to a variety of live content.

This collaboration is a win-win for both companies. For Roku, it solidifies its position as a leading streaming platform by making its sports hub more valuable to users. For Google, it helps drive engagement and viewership for its flagship live TV streaming service. This strategic timing, just as the NFL and NBA seasons are getting into full swing, ensures millions of sports fans can take advantage of the seamless integration.

Find out more about the new features coming to Roku in this video from CFL-TECH, which also covers the recent Roku-Google TV integration.

YouTube TV Quietly Offers a $66 Discount to Subscribers.

In a move that's sure to please cord-cutters and budget-conscious consumers, YouTube TV is offering a significant, albeit unadvertised, discount to a number of its subscribers. As reported by tech news outlets, the streaming service is providing a $33 monthly discount for two months, resulting in a total savings of $66.

This promotion effectively lowers the price of the YouTube TV Base Plan from its standard rate of $82.99 per month to $49.99 per month for the duration of the offer.

A "Hidden" Deal for Eligible Users.

Unlike many of the service's other promotions, this discount is not being broadly advertised. Instead, it appears to be a targeted offer available to select users. Subscribers who have found the deal report that it is located within their account settings, and it's not a deal that requires any special promo codes or an immediate threat of cancellation.

For users interested in checking their eligibility, the process is straightforward:

1. Log in to the YouTube TV website.
2. Click on your profile photo in the top-right corner.
3. Navigate to Settings and then the Membership section.
4. Under the Base plan, click on the Manage option.
5. If you're eligible, you should see the offer for $49.99/month for two months.

This promotion is notably more generous than a recent $10/month discount that was offered for a six-month period. For those who are eligible for both, the new $66 total savings offer represents a better short-term value.

Why the Discount?

The timing of this promotion is strategic. It comes as YouTube TV recently secured a carriage deal to keep Fox channels on the platform and continues to expand its offerings, including new "multiview" features. The move could be seen as a way to retain existing subscribers and keep them engaged amidst growing competition in the live TV streaming market from services like Hulu + Live TV and FuboTV.

It's important to note that the discount is for a limited time, and after the two-month promotional period ends, the price will revert to the standard $82.99 monthly rate. Subscribers are encouraged to check their accounts soon, as the availability of this "hidden" deal may be limited.

Google Teases Major Nest Cam and Gemini Updates for October.

Google has officially teased a new era for its smart home products, with a major announcement scheduled for October 1. The company's teaser confirms that new Nest Cam and Gemini updates are on the way, promising a significant evolution for the Google Home ecosystem.

The most anticipated reveal is a new generation of the Nest Cam. While Google's teaser image shows a redesign, with a new look for the camera sensor, prior leaks suggest more is coming. The new indoor Nest Cam is rumored to feature a 2K video update, a significant jump in resolution that would improve image clarity and detail. Updates to the outdoor camera and doorbell are also expected to be part of the announcement.

In addition to hardware, Google is also focused on software. The teaser confirms that "Gemini is coming to Google Home," indicating that Google's advanced AI model will be integrated into the smart home experience. A new Gemini-powered speaker is also expected to be unveiled. This integration is likely to enhance the capabilities of Google Home devices, offering more intuitive and intelligent interactions.

Is that you, Gemini? Come in and make yourself at Home 🏠

Sign up for updates: https://t.co/V85WgPJvQN pic.twitter.com/JJaVRW385A

— Made by Google (@madebygoogle) September 2, 2025

This forthcoming event on October 1 marks the first official teaser for a new generation of Nest Cam products and signals Google's commitment to bringing its AI innovations to the smart home.

Google Reassures Users, Reaffirms Gmail's Robust Security Following Misinformation.

In a recent blog post, Google addressed and refuted inaccurate reports circulating online about a supposed major security flaw in Gmail. The company clarified that claims of a widespread Gmail security warning are false and misleading, reaffirming the service's strong and effective security measures.

According to Google, Gmail's protections successfully block over 99.9% of phishing and malware attempts from reaching users' inboxes. The tech giant stated that its security teams are constantly investing and innovating to protect users from evolving threats.

Google's Recommended User Best Practices.

Beyond its own system-level defenses, Google's statement also provides a clear call to action for users, outlining simple but effective best practices to enhance their own security. The company specifically encourages two key measures:

• Embrace Passkeys: Google strongly recommends that users move beyond traditional passwords and adopt more secure alternatives like Passkeys. This technology provides a more secure and convenient way to sign into accounts, offering greater protection against phishing attacks.
• Learn to Spot Phishing: The company advises users to be vigilant and learn the tell-tale signs of a phishing attempt. By understanding how to identify and report suspicious emails, users can act as a crucial first line of defense against cyber threats that manage to bypass automated filters.

Google's detailed response aims to not only correct the record but also to empower its users with the knowledge and tools needed to maintain a high level of security in the face of ongoing online threats.

ICC and Google Partner to Elevate Women's Cricket.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) and Google have announced a new global partnership aimed at enhancing fan engagement and accelerating the growth of women's cricket. This collaboration will leverage Google's cutting-edge technology to bring fans closer to the game, players, and key moments.

The partnership, a first of its kind with an exclusive focus on women's cricket, is designed to make the sport more accessible, dynamic, and meaningful for fans worldwide. By utilizing a range of Google products, including Android, Google Gemini, Google Pay, and Google Pixel, the initiative will expand on every stage of the fan journey from discovering highlights to celebrating team victories.

A Strategic Move to Capitalize on Growth.

This announcement comes at a pivotal time for women's cricket, which is experiencing significant growth in viewership and popularity globally. The partnership is set to play a key role in promoting two major upcoming events: the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup 2025 and the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026.

According to ICC Chairman Jay Shah, the collaboration will be instrumental in expanding the sport's global reach and inspiring the next generation of cricketers. The strategic use of Google's technology is expected to create new avenues for fan interaction and content consumption, helping to solidify women's cricket as a leading global sport.

What the Partnership Means for Fans.

The integration of Google's products will offer a more dynamic and personalized fan experience. For example, fans can expect to see enhanced features on Android, interactive content on Google Gemini, and seamless payment and engagement options through Google Pay. The partnership with Google Pixel will also likely lead to exclusive content and experiences that highlight the game's biggest stars.

By combining the ICC's commitment to the sport with Google's technological expertise, this collaboration promises to transform how fans engage with women's cricket, making it a more connected and celebrated sport on a global scale.

Acer Unveils a New Google TV Box with a Wealth of Ports

Acer has announced a new 4K UHD streaming box running Google TV, which is notable for its extensive selection of connectivity ports. The device has appeared on a pre-order page in South Africa and marks a new entry into the Google TV hardware market.

The new box features a simple, plain white design with the Acer logo on the top corner. Its remote control is a familiar sight, closely resembling Google's typical reference design for its streaming devices. However, what sets this box apart from its competitors is its focus on connectivity.

A Port for Every Need.

Unlike many minimalist streaming devices on the market today, the Acer Google TV box is equipped with a wide array of ports, catering to users who require more than just a single HDMI connection. The device includes:

• Two USB-C ports
• One USB-A port
• HDMI port
• Ethernet port
• Optical audio output
• MicroSD card slot

This generous selection of ports provides users with the flexibility to connect various accessories, from external storage and webcams to wired network connections and legacy audio systems.

Under the hood, the device is powered by a "Quad core Amlogic CPU," identified as a likely Amlogic S905X5. It supports Wi-Fi 6 and, according to conflicting reports, comes with either 2GB or 3GB of RAM.

While the box is currently only available for pre-order in South Africa, its unique focus on providing a wide range of ports could make it a compelling option for a niche market of power users. A global release has not been confirmed at this time.

Google Discover to Offer New Language Controls for Multilingual Users.

Google is rolling out a significant update to its Discover feed, introducing a new language selector that will give users unprecedented control over the languages of the content they see. This change, which is a major quality-of-life improvement for multilingual users, moves beyond the current rigid system to offer a more personalized and flexible experience.

For years, the Google Discover feed, which proactively surfaces personalized content, has been a source of frustration for many. While it often delivers articles and videos based on browsing history, its language settings have been notably restrictive. 

The feed's content is primarily tied to a device's main language, with the only way to filter other languages being to manually hide them one by one. This forces many users to choose between their preferred content language and their device’s system language, a common point of friction highlighted in various user forums and support communities.

Also Read: Google’s Discover Feed Gets AI Summaries, Alarming Publishers.

How the Discover New Feature Works.

The new interface, discovered in a beta version of the Google app (version 16.33.64), addresses this issue directly. A new setting for "Discover feed languages" will appear under the "Language & region" menu. Instead of a single selection, users will now be able to choose multiple content languages from a list of options. The update will also include "suggested languages" based on the user's activity. 

Image Credit: AndroidPolice

This allows a user to, for example, have their phone's system in English while still seeing news from a Spanish publication and tech articles from a German source, all within the same feed.

This change is not just about convenience; it's about making the Discover feed truly personal. For many around the globe, their online life and interests span multiple languages, and this update acknowledges that reality. It empowers users to curate a feed that genuinely reflects their interests, rather than one limited by a single language setting.

Implications for Content Creators.

This new feature also has significant implications for content creators and publishers. With users able to select specific languages, it becomes even more critical for creators to have a robust multilingual content strategy. 

Publishers who offer content in multiple languages may see increased visibility in new markets as Google's algorithm can now more accurately match their content with a wider, more diverse audience. As Google's systems for personalization become more granular, the quality and relevance of content will be more important than ever.

While the feature is not yet live for all users and its rollout timeline is not final, the discovery of this beta interface is a strong signal that Google is committed to making the Discover feed a more inclusive and effective tool for a global, multilingual audience.

Google Search AI Mode Expands with Powerful Agentic and Personalized Features.

Google is taking a major leap forward in how users interact with its search engine, announcing a significant expansion of its 'AI Mode' with new agentic and personalized features. This update, detailed in a recent blog post, is designed to transform Google Search from an information retrieval tool into a powerful, AI-powered agent that can help users get things done in the real world.

Introducing Agentic Capabilities: Your Personal Assistant in Search

One of the most groundbreaking additions is the new suite of "agentic" features. Rolling out initially as a Labs experiment for Google AI Ultra subscribers in the U.S., these capabilities allow AI Mode to perform multi-step tasks for you.

A prime example is the ability to book restaurant reservations. Instead of just showing a list of restaurants, AI Mode can now handle complex requests with multiple constraints. For instance, you could ask, "Find me a quiet Italian restaurant for four people at 7 PM on Saturday that's good for a birthday dinner and has outdoor seating." The AI will then search across various platforms to find real-time availability and present a curated list of options, complete with direct links to booking pages. The article notes this functionality will soon expand to include local service appointments and event tickets.

Deeply Personalized Results Based on Your Preferences

In addition to agentic actions, the update brings a new layer of personalization. For users in the U.S. who have opted into the AI Mode experiment, Google Search can now use previous conversations and search history to provide recommendations that are more tailored to your personal tastes.

This means if you're looking for a new restaurant, the AI will factor in your past preferences for specific cuisines or dining environments to suggest places it thinks you'll genuinely like. This level of personalization moves Google Search beyond simple queries to an experience that feels uniquely your own.

Collaboration and Global Expansion

The update also includes a new link-sharing feature, making it easy to share AI Mode responses with friends and family. This is especially useful for collaborative tasks like planning a trip or a group event, where multiple people can view and discuss the same results.

Finally, in a major step to make these advanced features more widely available, Google is expanding AI Mode to over 180 new countries and territories in English. This global rollout will allow millions more users to experience a more complex and nuanced search experience, marking a new era for Google Search's evolution.

Also Read: Google Adds AI Mode Shortcut to Android Search Widget.

Google Wallet Expands Digital ID Support to Montana

Google has expanded its digital wallet service to include support for state IDs in Montana, giving residents a new way to carry identification securely on their smartphones.

The feature, which has already rolled out in several other states, allows users to upload their Montana state ID or driver’s license directly into Google Wallet. Once added, the digital ID can be used at select checkpoints, such as TSA airport security lines, where digital identification is accepted.

Officials say the move is part of a broader effort to make carrying and presenting identification more convenient. With Google Wallet, residents no longer need to worry about forgetting their physical ID, as the digital version is securely stored and can be accessed with just a few taps.

Google has emphasized security in this rollout, noting that IDs in Wallet are encrypted and can only be accessed through device authentication methods like fingerprint, face unlock, or PIN.

Montana joins a growing list of states that are adopting digital identification in mobile wallets, a trend that is expected to expand further in the coming years. For now, residents will still need their physical IDs for certain uses, but the introduction of digital IDs in Google Wallet marks a step toward modernizing how people carry and use their identification.

Also Read- Google Wallet Streamlines Pixel Payments with New Quick Access Overlay.

How to Set Up Your Montana ID in Google Wallet.

If you’re a Montana resident and want to add your ID to Google Wallet, here’s how to get started:

1. Update Google Wallet – Make sure you have the latest version of the Google Wallet app installed on your Android device.
2. Open the App – Launch Google Wallet and tap the “Add to Wallet” button.
3. Select ID Card – From the list of options, choose “ID Card or Driver’s License.”
4. Verify Eligibility – Pick Montana as your state and follow the on-screen prompts.
5. Scan Your ID – Use your phone’s camera to scan both sides of your physical ID.
6. Take a Selfie – Google may ask you to take a quick selfie to confirm your identity.
7. Submit for Verification – Once submitted, your ID will be verified by state authorities.
8. Ready to Use – After approval, your digital ID will appear in Google Wallet, ready to use wherever accepted.

This setup process takes just a few minutes, and once done, Montana residents can start using their phones as official ID in supported locations.

Google Powers Up its Clean Energy Future with First Advanced Nuclear Reactor Project.

In a landmark move set to significantly impact the landscape of clean energy and data center sustainability, Google has announced its first direct involvement in an advanced nuclear reactor project. Partnering with Kairos Power and the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), this ambitious initiative aims to power Google's data centers with reliable, carbon-free energy while simultaneously revitalizing the Oak Ridge region as a hub for nuclear innovation. This news marks a pivotal step in Google's commitment to achieving 24/7 carbon-free energy for all its operations.

A New Era for Sustainable Data Centers

Google's pursuit of 24/7 carbon-free energy (CFE) requires diverse and dependable clean energy sources. While renewable energy, such as solar and wind, plays a crucial role, its intermittency necessitates a consistent, always-on power supply. This is where advanced nuclear energy steps in. By investing in this project, Google is not only securing its energy future but also demonstrating a viable path for other large energy consumers to achieve similar sustainability goals.

The collaboration centers around Kairos Power's innovative Hermes 2 Plant in Oak Ridge. This facility represents a significant leap forward in nuclear technology, leveraging advanced Generation IV reactor designs that are inherently safer, more efficient, and produce less waste than traditional nuclear power plants.

The Power Purchase Agreement: A Model for Clean Energy Partnerships

A critical component of this project is a new power purchase agreement (PPA) between Google, Kairos Power, and TVA. This agreement is groundbreaking for several reasons:

• First of its Kind: It marks the first time a U.S. utility (TVA) has agreed to purchase electricity from an advanced Generation IV nuclear reactor. This sets a precedent for future deployments of similar technologies across the nation.
• Initial 50 MW Boost: The Hermes 2 Plant will initially provide 50 megawatts (MW) of nuclear energy to TVA's grid. This power will directly support Google's data centers in Montgomery County, Tennessee, and Jackson County, Alabama.
• Around-the-Clock Clean Energy: Google will specifically procure clean energy attributes from the Hermes 2 Plant. This ensures that its regional data centers are powered with locally sourced, 24/7 carbon-free energy, moving beyond simply matching energy consumption with renewable purchases.
• Scalable Solution: This initial deployment is part of a broader, long-term collaboration with Kairos Power, with the ambitious goal of unlocking up to 500 MW of nuclear power for the U.S. electricity system through multiple deployments of their small modular reactor (SMR) technology.

Re-establishing Oak Ridge as a Nuclear Innovation Hub

The choice of Oak Ridge, Tennessee, is strategic. Historically a center for nuclear research and development, this project aims to re-establish the region as a vibrant hub for nuclear innovation. This will not only foster technological advancements but also create high-skilled jobs and contribute to local economic growth. The public-private partnership exemplifies how collaboration between technology companies, energy providers, and nuclear developers can drive significant progress in clean energy.

A Three-Party Solution for the Future of Energy

This project serves as a powerful example of a "three-party solution," bringing together energy customers (Google), utilities (TVA), and technology developers (Kairos Power). This collaborative model is crucial for accelerating the development and deployment of new, reliable, and affordable clean energy technologies. As the world seeks to decarbonize energy grids, such partnerships will be vital in advancing solutions that offer both sustainability and energy security.

Google's foray into advanced nuclear energy signals a major step towards a truly carbon-free future for its operations and offers a scalable blueprint for other industries striving for similar environmental targets.

Google Hit with A$55 Million Fine in Australia for Anti-Competitive Telco Deals.

Key Highlights.

• Google fined A$55 million by ACCC for anti-competitive deals with Australian telcos.
• Fine relates to pre-installation of Google Search on Android phones, stifling competition.
• Marks a significant regulatory action against tech giants' market dominance in Australia.

Google has agreed to pay a significant A$55 million (approximately $35.8 million USD) fine for engaging in anti-competitive practices with major Australian telecommunication companies, including Telstra and Optus. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) brought forth the proceedings, asserting that Google's agreements for the pre-installation of its search engine on Android mobile phones stifled competition in the market.

The landmark settlement, which Google (Alphabet Inc.) has cooperated with and admitted liability for, marks a crucial development in the ongoing global scrutiny of tech giants' market dominance. The agreed-upon penalty will be jointly submitted to the Federal Court for approval.

The ACCC's investigation focused on agreements where Google's search engine was set as the default on Android devices distributed through these telcos. Regulators argued that such arrangements limited consumer choice and hindered smaller search engine competitors from gaining traction in the Australian market.

This fine underscores a broader push by regulatory bodies worldwide to ensure fair competition in the digital economy. For a tech news and blog website focused on Google Updates and News, this ruling highlights the increasing legal challenges faced by the company regarding its market behavior and the proactive stance of international regulators.

The ACCC has consistently voiced concerns over the market power of major digital platforms, and this outcome signals a continued commitment to address practices deemed detrimental to competition and consumer welfare. As the digital landscape evolves, the focus on fair play in search and mobile ecosystems remains a top priority for watchdogs.

Google Ads Opens Doors for Sports Betting in Missouri.

The landscape of online advertising for sports betting is undergoing a significant shift in Missouri. Google Ads has officially announced that it will begin accepting and running advertisements for sports betting from certified, state-licensed entities in Missouri, effective August 15, 2025. This pivotal policy change comes as Missouri prepares for the official launch of legal retail and online/mobile sports betting on December 1, 2025, following the narrow approval of Amendment 2 by voters in November 2024.

This development marks a new era for sports betting operators and advertisers in the Show-Me State, offering unprecedented reach through Google's powerful advertising platform. However, this opportunity comes with stringent requirements and a clear emphasis on responsible advertising.

Google's Evolving Gambling Ad Policies.

Google maintains a nuanced and often strict approach to gambling advertising worldwide, prioritizing responsible practices and adherence to local laws. Generally, Google's policy on gambling and games content requires that:  

• Advertisers only target approved countries where gambling is legal.  
• Landing pages display information about responsible gambling.  
• Ads never target minors or vulnerable individuals.  
• Advertisers obtain a mandatory Google Ads certification before running gambling-related advertisements. This certification is often tied to specific websites and requires proof of fulfilling legal requirements in the targeted area.

While Google is tightening its rules for political advertising in regions like the EU, its measured expansion into regulated sports betting markets like Missouri demonstrates a strategic adaptation to evolving legal frameworks. This approach allows for growth in regulated sectors while maintaining a commitment to user safety and compliance.

Missouri's Sports Betting Landscape.

Missouri officially legalized sports betting when voters approved Amendment 2 in November 2024, permitting both retail and online/mobile sports wagering for individuals aged 21 and older. The Missouri Gaming Commission (MGC) is the regulatory body tasked with overseeing the licensing and operation of sports betting.

The official launch of sports betting in Missouri is set for December 1, 2025. The MGC has already begun the process of awarding licenses, with prominent operators like DraftKings and Circa securing untethered sportsbook licenses. Other operators, such as FanDuel and Fanatics Sportsbook, are also actively pursuing licenses, often requiring an in-state partner.

For advertisers, understanding Missouri's specific laws is paramount. The state's regulations will dictate what can be advertised and how, ensuring that all promotions align with legal provisions and responsible gambling initiatives.

Navigating Google Ads Certification for Missouri Sportsbooks.

To leverage Google Ads for sports betting in Missouri, licensed operators must undergo a mandatory certification process. This is not merely a formality but a critical step to ensure compliance and responsible advertising. The certification requirements include:  

• Proof of State Licensure: Advertisers must demonstrate that they are certified, state-licensed entities operating legally within Missouri.  
• Accurate Business Model Identification: During the application process, advertisers must accurately identify their business model, choosing from options such as "Sports betting," "Daily fantasy sports," or "Online casino" (where permitted).
• Policy Adherence: Advertisers must commit to abiding by all of Google's advertising policies, including those related to gambling, as well as all local laws and industry standards.  
• Account Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of the ad account is essential to maintain certification status and ensure ongoing compliance. Falsifying certifications or submitting inaccurate documentation can lead to permanent bans from the platform.

Also Read- Google Unleashes AI & LLMs to Slash Invalid Ad Traffic by 40%.

Advertising Guidelines and Best Practices on Google Ads in Missouri.

Even with certification, sports betting advertisers in Missouri must adhere to specific Google Ads guidelines to ensure their campaigns are compliant and effective:

• Permitted Ad Formats and Content: While the policy allows sports betting advertising across most Google Ads formats, certain restrictions apply. The advertising content must strictly align with permitted gambling activities under Missouri state law. For instance, the policy specifically covers "sports betting" but does not automatically extend to other gambling categories like online casino games or social casino applications unless explicitly permitted and certified.  
• Geographic Targeting: Ads must be geographically targeted to reach only users within Missouri, where sports betting is legal. This is crucial to avoid violations in states where such advertising is prohibited.
• Landing Page Requirements: Destination URLs (landing pages) for sports betting ads must display clear information about responsible gambling. They should not offer gambling services themselves or link to gambling services owned by the advertiser if the destination is primarily an aggregator or informational site.
• Keyword Strategy: Advertisers should conduct thorough keyword research to target relevant terms while avoiding overly aggressive or misleading language. Focusing on compliant, high-intent keywords will maximize visibility among the target audience.

The Impact on the Missouri Market: Opportunities and Challenges

The green light from Google Ads presents significant opportunities for the burgeoning sports betting market in Missouri:

• Increased Visibility: Licensed operators can reach a vast audience of potential bettors through Google's expansive search and display networks.  
• Market Growth: Enhanced advertising capabilities are likely to accelerate the growth of the legal sports betting industry in Missouri, increasing engagement and revenue for both operators and the state.
• Competitive Edge: Compliant advertisers can gain a competitive edge by effectively reaching users actively searching for sports betting options.

However, challenges remain:

• Strict Compliance: The rigorous certification process and ongoing policy adherence demand significant attention and resources from advertisers.
• High Competition: As more operators enter the market, competition for ad space and keywords on Google Ads will intensify.  
• Potential for Violations: Any deviation from Google's policies or Missouri's laws can lead to ad disapprovals, account suspensions, or even permanent bans, underscoring the need for continuous vigilance.

Conclusion: A Regulated Yet Promising Future.

Google Ads' decision to accept sports betting advertisements in Missouri marks a pivotal moment for the state's newly legalized industry. This move not only provides a powerful platform for licensed operators to reach their audience but also reinforces the importance of responsible and compliant advertising practices. As Missouri gears up for its official sports betting launch in December 2025, the synergy between evolving state laws and adaptable advertising policies promises a dynamic and regulated future for the market. For advertisers, success will hinge on navigating these new policies with precision, ensuring both regulatory adherence and effective outreach.

Google Flights Unveils AI-Powered "Flight Deals".

Gone are the days of endless tab-hopping and meticulous date adjustments to find the perfect flight deal. Google is revolutionizing travel planning with the launch of "Flight Deals," a new AI-powered search tool seamlessly integrated within Google Flights. Designed specifically for flexible travelers whose top priority is saving money, this innovative feature promises to simplify the quest for affordable airfare.

How AI Transforms Your Flight Search.

At its core, "Flight Deals" leverages Google's advanced AI to understand the nuances of your travel preferences through natural language queries. Instead of rigid date and destination inputs, you can now describe your ideal trip as if you're talking to a friend. For instance, you could search for:

• Week-long trip this winter to a city with great food, nonstop.
• 10-day ski trip to a world-class resort with fresh powder.
• Romantic weekend getaways.
• See the cherry blossoms in Japan.

The AI then processes these conversational inputs, identifies matching destinations, and taps into real-time Google Flights data from hundreds of airlines and booking sites. This intelligent approach helps uncover the best bargains available, even suggesting destinations you might not have previously considered. The results are optimized for savings, highlighting flights that are cheaper than usual.

Beyond Filters: A More Intuitive Planning Experience.

This new tool complements the existing Google Flights experience, which will continue to operate and receive updates. "Flight Deals" offers a more fluid and less prescriptive way to explore travel possibilities, bridging the gap between your abstract travel ideas and concrete flight data. It's particularly beneficial for those who prioritize budget and flexibility over a fixed itinerary.

In addition to "Flight Deals," Google Flights is also adding a new option for users in the U.S. and Canada to exclude basic economy fares from their search results, providing more control over comfort and amenities.

Rollout and Availability.

"Flight Deals" is currently in its beta phase and is rolling out over the next week to users in the United States, Canada, and India. There's no opt-in required; users can access the new feature directly via the dedicated "Flight Deals" page or through the top-left menu within Google Flights. Google is actively gathering feedback during this beta period to further refine how AI can enhance the travel planning process.

This update represents Google's ongoing commitment to integrating AI across its products, making complex tasks like finding cheap flights more accessible and intuitive for everyone. Get ready to explore more, save more, and travel smarter with the power of AI at your fingertips.

Google Keep for Android Gains Essential "Sort" Feature for Enhanced Organization.

Key Highlights.

• Google Keep for Android now allows users to sort notes by "Custom," "Date created," or "Date modified."
• This update significantly enhances the ability to manage and find notes within the app, especially for large note collections.
• The sorting capability is currently rolling out to Google Keep on Android (v5.25.312.00.90) via a server-side update.

Google Keep, the minimalist note-taking app beloved for its simplicity and cross-platform syncing, is finally rolling out a long-awaited "Sort by" feature for its Android application. This significant quality-of-life improvement addresses a persistent user request, allowing for much more efficient organization and retrieval of notes.

Previously, Google Keep primarily relied on a reverse chronological order or manual dragging for note arrangement, which could become cumbersome for users with extensive note libraries. The introduction of dedicated sorting options marks a substantial step towards providing users with greater control over their digital thoughts.

New Sorting Options to Tame Your Notes.

The new "Sort by" capability can be found conveniently located within the search bar, next to the existing single or multi-column feed switcher icon. Tapping this new icon reveals a bottom sheet with clear sorting choices:

• Custom: This is the default setting and maintains your manually arranged order (notes can still be dragged and dropped).
• Date created: Organizes notes based on when they were originally made, from newest to oldest or vice-versa.
• Date modified: Sorts notes by their last edited date, keeping your most recently updated thoughts easily accessible.

When a date-based sorting option is active, the sort icon in the search field will visually indicate that it is active, making it clear how your notes are currently organized. Google Keep also intelligently remembers your "Custom" order, so you can always revert to your preferred manual arrangement after using the date-based sorting.

Credit: Google

A Gradual Rollout and Platform Availability.

This highly anticipated feature is rolling out widely to Android users on Google Keep version 5.25.312.00.90, though it appears to be a server-side update, meaning availability may vary even for users on the correct app version. While Android is receiving this update first, there is no immediate confirmation on its rollout to iOS or the web client at this time. The feature also integrates seamlessly with the Material 3 Expressive design language, which many users are beginning to see in the app.

This update transforms Google Keep from a simple dumping ground for thoughts into a more powerful and manageable organizational tool, especially for those juggling a large number of notes and lists.

Google Wallet Streamlines Pixel Payments with New Quick Access Overlay

Key Highlights.

• Quick Access Overlay: Google Wallet introduces a new card carousel overlay for Pixel devices via the double-tap power button, enabling faster payments.
• Seamless User Experience: Pay with a different card instantly without fully opening the Wallet app, then quickly return to your previous activity.
• Gradual Rollout: The feature is arriving on Pixel phones running Android 16 and Wallet v25.31, indicating a staged deployment.

Google is rolling out a significant quality-of-life improvement for Pixel users, introducing a new, intuitive overlay for Google Wallet that enhances the speed and convenience of contactless payments. This update, observed on devices running Android 16 and Google Wallet version 25.31, streamlines access to your payment cards directly from a double-tap power button gesture.

For a long time, Pixel users could customize the double-press power button gesture to launch the full Google Wallet app. While useful, this meant navigating the entire application just to select a different card for payment. The new overlay revolutionizes this process by presenting a card carousel directly above your current screen, featuring a subtly blurred background.

This "hold to reader" NFC animation and quick card selection is a game-changer for users who frequently switch between different cards or need to pay rapidly without fully leaving their active application. After the transaction is complete, the overlay dismisses, allowing users to seamlessly return to what they were doing previously. A convenient "Open Wallet" shortcut is also provided at the bottom for those who need to access more in-depth Wallet features.

The feature appears to be rolling out gradually, as not all Pixel devices have received it yet. It's tied to Android 16 and requires Google Wallet version 25.31, along with the latest Play services (beta). Early reports indicate it's appearing for users with Pixel 9 Pro Fold devices running Android 16. This new overlay is reminiscent of a similar quick access feature seen in previous Android versions, indicating Google's continued focus on optimizing payment flows.

This update reinforces Google's commitment to making digital payments on Pixel devices not just secure, but also incredibly efficient and user-friendly.

Google Gemini Boosts User Privacy with New Temporary Chats & Enhanced Data Controls.

Key Points.

• New Temporary Chat Mode: Engage with Gemini in sessions that won't be saved to your history or used for personalization, ensuring enhanced privacy.
• Balanced Personalization: Gemini can now offer more tailored responses based on your saved chat history, while giving you the choice for private, unsaved conversations.

Google is rolling out a significant update to its Gemini AI chatbot, introducing a highly anticipated "Temporary Chats" feature alongside more robust personalization options and expanded privacy controls. This move empowers users with greater command over their conversation history and how their data is used, addressing key privacy considerations in the evolving AI landscape.

Historically, AI chatbots often save conversation history to improve performance and personalize future interactions. While beneficial for continuity, this approach raises concerns for users who prioritize privacy. Google's new Temporary Chats directly tackles this by allowing users to engage with Gemini in sessions that will not be saved in their Gemini Apps Activity, nor will these specific conversations be used to personalize future responses.

Introducing Gemini's Temporary Chats.

When a temporary chat is initiated, it functions as a clean slate, ensuring that any sensitive or one-off queries remain ephemeral. This offers peace of mind for users discussing private topics or conducting quick, isolated tasks without a permanent record. It's important to note that certain advanced features that rely on persistent activity, such as personalized responses based on past interactions or integrations with other Google services (like Workspace), will not be available in temporary chat mode.

For users who prefer a more personalized experience, Gemini is also enhancing its ability to learn from past chats (when chat history is enabled). This allows the AI assistant to provide more tailored and relevant responses over time, becoming an even more proactive and powerful tool the more you interact with it. Just as Gemini adapts to your conversational style, you can also easily customize its interface by learning how to change language in the Gemini app, ensuring your entire experience is tailored to your preferences. 

How Temporary Chats Work?

Complementing these features are new, more granular privacy settings. Users now have increased control over their Gemini Apps Activity, including options to:

• Review and delete past conversations.
• Adjust auto-delete settings for their activity, allowing them to choose shorter or longer retention periods, or turn off saving entirely.
• Manage location permissions and other data access directly from within the Gemini app or associated Google Account settings.

These updates underscore Google's ongoing commitment to user control and data privacy within its experimental generative AI offerings. By providing clear choices and ephemeral chat options, Gemini aims to build greater trust and flexibility for its growing user base.

Read more - 

• Create Storybooks using Gemini.
• Gemini Drops Feed to Centralize AI Tips and Updates.

Google Introduces ‘Preferred Sources’ to Let Users Customize Search News

Key Takeaway.

• Google Search’s new Preferred Sources feature allows users to customize news results by prioritizing outlets they trust most.
• Even with preferences set, Search still surfaces a variety of credible perspectives to ensure balanced coverage.
• This update could significantly enhance visibility for smaller, niche, and local publishers in competitive news feeds.

Google is giving users a powerful new tool to personalize their news feed in Search: the Preferred Sources feature. Rolling out now in the U.S. and India, this feature aims to elevate stories from publications you trust by prioritizing them in the Top Stories section.

What Is “Preferred Sources”?

Rather than relying solely on algorithmic selections, Preferred Sources allows users to choose which news outlets they want to see more often. Once enabled, relevant articles from your chosen sources will appear more prominently in Top Stories, often marked with a star indicator. In some cases, a new dedicated “From your sources” carousel may also display content from your preferred outlets.
This rollout marks the feature’s graduation from Labs to public access in English-language Search across the U.S. and India, with more regions expected to follow.

How to Set Up Preferred Sources

1. Perform a Google Search for a current news topic.

2. Tap the star icon next to the Top Stories header.

3. Search for and select your favorite publications to include as preferred.

4. Refresh the results to see your selected outlets featured more prominently.

Users can select unlimited sources, and if they had previously opted into the feature via Google Labs, their preferences will carry over automatically.

The Preferred Sources feature gives users the ability to take back control of their news consumption by prioritizing content from providers they trust. Instead of relying solely on Google’s algorithm, users can shape their news feed to better reflect their own interests and values.

At the same time, the feature still preserves variety in the Top Stories section. Even with your preferred outlets set, other relevant publications will continue to appear alongside them, ensuring a balanced mix of perspectives.

For publishers, especially niche or local voices, Preferred Sources can be a visibility boost, helping their stories surface more frequently to readers who have actively chosen to follow them. This approach also acts as a timely countermeasure to concerns that AI-powered Search features may reduce site traffic, bringing a greater level of transparency and user agency to the news discovery process.

Google is Quietly Preserving Some Goo.gl Links Despite Shutting Down.

In a surprising twist, Google is preserving access to select goo.gl short links, even though the official Google URL Shortener service was discontinued years ago. According to a recent investigation by Android Authority, while the public-facing service is no longer functional, some old shortened links still redirect properly, raising questions about Google’s handling of legacy data and link preservation.

In an update to its developer blog, Google explained:

While we previously announced discontinuing support for all goo.gl URLs after August 25, 2025, we've adjusted our approach to preserve actively used links. We understand these links are embedded in countless documents, videos, posts, and more, and we appreciate the input received.

The End of Goo.gl.

The Google URL Shortener service, launched in 2009, was originally created to help users share links in a more compact format, especially for mobile users and platforms like Twitter. Over the years, it gained popularity among marketers, bloggers, and everyday users.

However, in March 2018, Google announced the gradual shutdown of the goo.gl service in favor of Firebase Dynamic Links (FDL), citing a shift in user behavior toward more dynamic mobile-first solutions. The URL shortener was fully shut down to the public in March 2019, and Google stated that existing links would continue to redirect, but the creation and management of new ones would no longer be supported.

Originally announced in July 2024, Google planned to sunset the legacy goo.gl shortener entirely, citing declining usage as 99 % of links had no activity as of mid‑2024. Those links were set to return errors, breaking outdated or embedded references across the web.

Fast forward to 2025, and some goo.gl links are surprisingly still active and functional, redirecting users to the correct destination. However, not all goo.gl links behave the same, and some now lead to a generic error page, while others continue to work perfectly.

This inconsistency suggests that Google might be selectively preserving certain high-traffic or important goo.gl links, possibly based on usage history or relevance. While there’s no official statement from Google on the exact criteria, it’s clear that some level of backend maintenance or archival logic is in place.

Implications for Users and the Web.

This partial survival of goo.gl links offers both opportunity and caution for users. On one hand, those with important legacy content tied to goo.gl links might find relief knowing some of their URLs still work. On the other hand, the unpredictability means businesses or publishers relying on goo.gl for permanent redirects should consider migrating to a more stable URL shortening service.

From a web archiving and digital preservation perspective, this raises interesting questions about Google’s long-term commitment to preserving parts of the internet’s past infrastructure. It also shows that tech giants, even when discontinuing a service, may still quietly maintain support for legacy features that serve value behind the scenes.

Google’s NotebookLM Introduces AI‑Powered Video Overviews.

Google is rolling out significant upgrades to NotebookLM, expanding its AI-powered research tool with a new Video Overviews format and a revamped Studio panel for enhanced content creation and multitasking.

The newly launched Video Overviews feature transforms dense information into narrated slideshow-style presentations. These AI-generated visuals integrate diagrams, quotes, data points, and images extracted directly from user-uploaded documents, making complex ideas more intuitive to understand. Users can tailor the output by specifying learning goals, audience, and specific segments to focus on, such as chapter-specific content or expert-level theories.

Video Overviews act as a visual counterpart to NotebookLM’s existing Audio Overviews and are now available to all English-language users, with additional languages and styles expected in upcoming updates.

Studio Panel Upgrades: Smarter Creation & Multi‑Output Workflows

NotebookLM’s Studio panel is also receiving a major upgrade. Users can now create and store multiple versions of the same output type (e.g., several Audio Overviews or Video Overviews) within a single notebook. This flexibility supports various use cases:

• Publish content in multiple languages or perspectives.
• Tailor outputs for different roles or audiences (e.g., student vs. manager).
• Segment study material by chapters or modules using separate overview videos or guides.

The updated Studio interface introduces a clean layout featuring four tiles—Audio Overview, Video Overview, Mind Map, and Report—for quick access. All generated content is indexed below the tiles, and users can multitask—for instance, listening to an Audio Overview while exploring a Mind Map or reviewing a Study Guide.

NotebookLM, first launched in July 2023 and powered by Google’s Gemini AI, is also known for its Audio Overviews, which present document insights in conversational, podcast-style formats.

These new Video Overviews bring a visual dimension, essential for explaining data, workflows, diagrams, and abstract ideas more effectively.

According to internal disclosures, Google introduced Audio Overviews across more than 80 languages earlier this year, which doubled daily audio usage and significantly expanded user engagement. User feedback has driven numerous updates, including enhanced customization, in-app feedback tools, community-driven enhancements, and broader accessibility.

These additions cap a series of recent improvements, like “Featured Notebooks” (curated content from partners such as The Atlantic and The Economist) and automatic source discovery.

Google Workspace Account Security with Passkeys and Device-Bound Credentials.

Credit: Google

Key Takeaway.

• DBSC binds session cookies to the user’s device, making stolen cookies unusable on other devices, even if credentials are compromised.
• Google recommends enabling DBSC with passkeys and context-aware access to safeguard enterprise accounts from phishing and cookie-based attacks.

Google Workspace has introduced a new security layer called Device Bound Session Credentials (DBSC) to help prevent attackers from hijacking accounts using stolen session cookies. The feature is now available in beta for Chrome users on Windows and is part of Google’s effort to strengthen enterprise account security.

How DBSC Enhances Session Security.

DBSC ties session cookies to the specific device used during authentication. When a user logs in, Chrome generates a unique public/private key pair—ideally stored in a Trusted Platform Module (TPM)—and binds the session cookie to this key. This means that stolen cookies cannot be reused from another device, significantly reducing the risk of remote account takeovers.

Google says this approach helps block malware-based attacks that steal session tokens after login, including those that bypass multi-factor authentication (MFA). By binding sessions to devices, attackers lose the value of exfiltrated cookies unless they have full access to the original hardware.

Session cookie theft has become a major threat, especially when targeted at enterprise users or high-profile accounts. Attackers use malware, malicious browser extensions, or man-in-the-middle phishing tools to capture authentication tokens, then reuse them to access services like Gmail, Google Drive, or Microsoft 365 without needing passwords or MFA codes.

By rolling out DBSC, Google is responding to a surge in token theft attacks observed in 2025. The feature aims to reduce account compromise even when login credentials are stolen.

How to Enable and What It Requires.

Workspace administrators can enable DBSC for their organization through Chrome policies or settings. The feature is currently supported on Chrome for Windows operating systems where TPM capabilities are available. Google also recommends combining DBSC with passkeys and context-aware access (CAA) to further reinforce its effect.

As Google rolls out broader support for DBSC, identity platforms like Okta and other browsers, including Microsoft Edge, have expressed interest in participating. Google is also working on open web standards to promote widespread adoption.

Looking Ahead

DBSC represents a shift in how session security is managed. Traditional cookie-based authentication, even when hardened with MFA, remains vulnerable if cookie theft occurs after login. With DBSC, even if attackers steal authentication tokens, they cannot exploit them from another device.

Google plans to extend DBSC to more platforms in the future and advance threat detection via its Shared Signals Framework (SSF), allowing security tools and identity providers to share risk signals in near-real time.